Former Miss America and nuclear fuels engineer Grace Vanderhei returns to The Crude Truth to break down why nuclear energy is making a major comeback in the United States. From the restart of Three Mile Island Unit 1 — now the Crane Clean Energy Center — to the growing demand for clean, reliable power, Grace explains how nuclear energy can help fuel America’s future.Connect with Grace on her LinkedIn! https://www.linkedin.com/in/gracevanderhei/Rey Trevino and Grace discuss her work with Constellation, the energy density of nuclear fuel, the role of uranium, the future of small modular reactors, and why nuclear remains one of the most powerful tools for energy independence. They also dive into the importance of building new projects on time and on budget, the bipartisan support behind nuclear, and why staying curious is key to understanding the future of energy.1. Nuclear Energy as a Clean, Reliable Power SourceThe core theme throughout the episode is promoting nuclear energy as a viable, clean, and reliable alternative to fossil fuels. The host emphasizes that nuclear is becoming increasingly important in America's energy independence strategy, alongside oil and gas.2. Grace Vanderheide's Career in Nuclear EngineeringGrace discusses her role as a nuclear fuels engineer at Constellation Energy, the largest commercial nuclear reactor fleet operator in the US with 21 operating reactors. She explains her work designing nuclear fuel for operating plants and upcoming restart projects.3. Three Mile Island Unit 1 Restart (Crane Clean Energy Center)A significant portion focuses on the restart of Three Mile Island Unit 1, which was decommissioned in 2019. Grace elaborates on:The distinction between Unit 1 (safe, operated until 2019) and Unit 2 (the 1979 incident)The engineering challenges of designing a completely new fuel coreCommunity support and job creation benefitsThe political backing from the current administration4. Nuclear Fuel Design and Energy DensityGrace explains the technical aspects of nuclear fuel, including:The concept of "spicy uranium" (U-235 vs U-238)How one fuel pellet produces as much energy as 1 ton of coal, 17,000 cubic feet of natural gas, or 150 gallons of oilThe potential for increased enrichment levels (LEU+) to improve efficiency5. Recent Nuclear Developments in the USDiscussion of recent milestones:Vogel Units 3 & 4 in Georgia (first new reactors built from scratch in 30 years, powering ~4 million homes)Federal support and billions in loans for new nuclear projectsTrump administration's goal to triple US nuclear capacity6. Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)Grace provides a balanced perspective on SMRs:Acknowledges their potential but cautions against overpromisingEmphasizes the need for fully licensed designs before constructionAdvocates for building on time and on budget to maintain industry credibility7. International Nuclear AdvocacyGrace shares her experiences promoting nuclear energy internationally:Her tour in Australia, where nuclear is banned (only G7 nation with this restriction)The bipartisan support for nuclear in the US compared to other countriesHer work engaging with legislators and policymakers8. Grace's Personal Journey and Future PlansHer transition from Miss America 2023 to nuclear engineerPursuing an MBA in International Business to move into the fuel supply chain sectorWriting a book about optimism (launching early 2027)Her continued advocacy for nuclear energy through social media and public engagementThe podcast emphasizes nuclear energy's critical role in meeting growing energy demands while maintaining environmental sustainability and economic benefits.Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/

The Crude Truth: Navigating Legal Complexity in Modern EnergyIn an era where energy demands are skyrocketing and the industry is at a crossroads between traditional oil and gas production and emerging clean technologies, the legal landscape has never been more complex. From royalty disputes and investor protection to the explosive growth of data centers demanding unprecedented power consumption, oil and gas companies face multifaceted challenges that require more than just operational expertise—they demand strategic legal foresight. In this episode of The Crude Truth, host Ray sits down with Lauren Varnado, a first-chair oil and gas attorney at the elite boutique firm Brown Rudnick, to explore the critical legal issues reshaping the energy sector. With a national practice spanning from Texas to Appalachia, Varnado brings invaluable insights into how companies can protect their interests, mitigate litigation risks, and capitalize on opportunities at the intersection of traditional energy and innovation. Whether you're an investor evaluating your first oil and gas deal, an operator navigating regulatory compliance, or an entrepreneur exploring data center partnerships, this conversation reveals the legal strategies and industry trends that separate successful energy companies from those caught in costly disputes.1. Oil & Gas Legal Practice & ExpertiseLauren Varnado, a first-chair oil and gas attorney at Brown Rudnick, discusses her national practice covering upstream and midstream sectors across major oil and gas producing states. She emphasizes the importance of understanding both the legal and business aspects of energy production.2. Royalty Disputes & Investor ProtectionA significant focus is on royalty disputes and ensuring proper payment structures for surface owners, working interest owners, and royalty owners. The discussion highlights how transparent communication and proper legal structuring protects both companies and investors, allowing them to receive fair returns without intermediaries taking excessive cuts.3. Litigation Risk MitigationLauren stresses the importance of proactive legal strategy to avoid costly litigation. She explains how companies can spend $100,000 on preventive legal analysis to avoid $5-10 million in litigation costs later. Key strategies include varying contract language, lease forms, and royalty check formats to prevent class action certification.4. Clean Energy & New TechnologiesThe conversation explores how traditional oil and gas producers are developing innovation groups to explore new technologies and clean energy ventures, recognizing that the future includes both traditional energy and renewable alternatives.5. Data Centers & Energy InfrastructureA major topic is the emerging intersection of data centers with oil and gas operations. Data centers require enormous amounts of power (equivalent to 20 New York cities), making natural gas and oil critical energy sources. The discussion covers contractual considerations and how oil and gas companies can protect their production rights while accommodating data center development.6. Energy Independence & Infrastructure ChallengesThe interview addresses critical infrastructure gaps, particularly in the Northeast and California, where restrictions on pipelines and LNG infrastructure force consumers to rely on expensive or environmentally harmful alternatives like heating oil. The discussion emphasizes how West Virginia and Texas have abundant natural gas resources that could solve energy shortages.7. Regulatory Compliance & Government RelationsLauren discusses the importance of complying with regulations, particularly the Texas Railroad Commission, which provides clarity and reduces legal risk compared to other states. She also addresses permitting reform as a critical issue needing government attention.8. Nuclear Energy & Alternative Power SourcesThe conversation includes a discussion on nuclear energy as a clean, safe power source when properly regulated, drawing parallels to how Thomas Edison's tactics created fear around electricity while Tesla's innovations became the standard.9. Climate Litigation & Environmental DisclosuresThe interview touches on shareholder lawsuits and climate-related litigation against oil and gas companies regarding the veracity of environmental and climate disclosures.10. Intellectual Property in EnergyLauren notes an emerging trend of IP and patent litigation in the oil and gas industry, including trade secret theft and patent disputes involving major companies and refineries—a shift from historical patterns where drilling contractors held most patents.This interview presents a comprehensive view of modern oil and gas legal practice, emphasizing the intersection of traditional energy, emerging technologies, and the critical role of legal strategy in business success.Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/

What makes West Texas networking different from anywhere else?In this episode of The Crude Truth, Rey Trevino sits down with Derrick Black, a respected oil & gas professional, community leader, and founder of Coffee & Connections. Derrick shares his journey from telecommunications with AT&T to building a successful career in the Permian Basin, while using his passion for networking to connect people, businesses, and nonprofits throughout West Texas.The conversation explores the culture of the Permian Basin, the importance of authentic relationships, the impact of community involvement, and how strong networks can create opportunities both inside and outside the oilfield. Derrick also discusses his work with local nonprofits, his commitment to leaving a meaningful legacy, and an exciting new venture that could bring innovative production technology to the industry.In This Episode:✔️ Derrick Black's journey into oil & gas✔️ Why networking is critical for career growth✔️ The story behind Coffee & Connections✔️ Supporting local nonprofits in West Texas✔️ The unique culture of the Permian Basin✔️ Leadership, legacy, and community impact✔️ Future opportunities in the energy industryWhether you're in oil & gas, business development, sales, or simply looking to build stronger professional relationships, this episode offers valuable insights on creating meaningful connections that drive success.Connect with Derrick on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrickblackbdm/Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/

Human trafficking is one of the world's most hidden and devastating crimes—and it's happening closer to home than many realize.In this episode of The Crude Truth, host Rey Trevino sits down with David Reid, CTO and CMO of NOV and founder of Red M, to discuss how he's using his platform in the energy industry to bring awareness to human trafficking and protect vulnerable children and families.We recommend connecting with David Reed on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidred/David shares the powerful mission behind Red M, how trafficking often begins through grooming and manipulation, and why education and awareness are the most important tools in preventing exploitation. He also discusses the organization's global growth, the launch of the Red Card United campaign during the 2026 World Cup, and how businesses and individuals can get involved.????️ In this episode:To learn more or get involved with Red M, visit JoinRedM.com and follow Red M on LinkedIn.1. Human Trafficking & Red M OrganizationThe primary focus of the episode is human trafficking awareness and prevention. David Reed, CTO and CMO of NOV and founder of Red M, discusses the organization's mission to combat human trafficking, particularly the grooming and exploitation of minors. Key points include:Red M operates 23-26 chapters across North America and the UKThe organization focuses on education and awareness rather than deep interventionThey've engaged over 6,000 volunteers in Houston alone over 8 years2. Grooming and Recruitment TacticsDavid explains how traffickers operate:Victims are typically groomed rather than forcibly takenTraffickers use cult-like techniques, sleep deprivation, and emotional manipulationThey isolate victims from families by convincing them "no one cares"The process typically targets mid-teens and can take yearsSpotters and controllers work in coordination to maintain control3. Warning Signs & IdentificationThe conversation covers how to recognize trafficking indicators:Behavioral changes in children (wrong crowd, suspicious relationships)Sleep deprivation and constant phone useIsolation from family and friendsThe importance of training parents and professionals to identify these signs4. Red M's Awareness CampaignsSeveral initiatives are discussed:Action Speaks Campaign: Care package building where people write encouraging notes to trafficking survivorsRed Card Campaign: Using World Cup football/soccer as a platform to raise awareness, with red cards symbolizing a "red card to trafficking"In-company training sessions at major corporations (Deloitte, HPE, Dell)Statistics showing that in groups of 30 people, typically 1 person has a child being groomed5. The World Cup 2026 PlatformDavid discusses leveraging the World Cup (hosted in North America) as an awareness opportunity:Red cards will be distributed at Houston Dynamo friendly gamesThe campaign uses the visual metaphor of a red card (player ejection) to represent stopping traffickingWebsite: redcardunited.com directs people to simple, accessible educationThe goal is to reach international audiences through football/soccer6. Funding & Volunteer ModelRed M's unique approach to operations:The organization operates entirely on volunteersThey actively discourage donations and focus on awareness insteadRecently secured $1.6 million from 35 oil and gas CEOs for an advertising campaignMoney is used for awareness campaigns and directed to survivor organizationsNo buildings or administrative overhead7. Oil & Gas Industry ConnectionThe episode emphasizes why Red M focuses on oil and gas communities:Oil and gas workers travel frequently to different citiesThis creates natural opportunities to establish chapters in new locationsThe industry has embraced the mission (Patterson UTI, SLB, Houston Airports involved)The platform allows industry leaders to use their influence for purpose8. Personal Motivation & PurposeDavid shares his journey:His wife initially got involved with anti-trafficking workRealizing the issue affected children motivated his deeper involvementHe views his platform at NOV as an opportunity to create positive changeThe work has become a "movement" rather than a forced initiativeThe episode emphasizes that human trafficking is a real, present danger affecting communities across North America, and that awareness and education are critical first steps in prevention.#TheCrudeTruth #DavidReid #RedM #HumanTraffickingAwareness #RedCardUnited #Leadership #OilAndGas #WorldCup2026 #PlatformForPurpose #EndHumanTrafficking #Podcast #EnergyIndustry #childprotection Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/

This was a fun interview with Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne on my recent trip to Washington, DC. I had some great meetings, and she is doing great things for her constituents. 1. American Energy Independence & Oil ProductionThe interview emphasizes Texas's historical and ongoing role in American energy. It references the 1901 Spindletop discovery and argues that despite alternative energy sources (wind, solar, electric), America still fundamentally depends on oil. The discussion highlights the importance of supporting American oil producers and maintaining competitive global positioning.2. The Strait of Hormuz & Middle East ConflictCongresswoman Van Dyen discusses the geopolitical tensions affecting oil prices, particularly the conflict in the Middle East. She explains the administration's goals regarding preventing a terrorist regime (Iran) from obtaining nuclear weapons, while also emphasizing the desire to exit the conflict as soon as possible.3. Gas Prices & Economic ImpactThe interview addresses current high gas prices and their effect on consumers. However, Van Dyen points out that gas prices are actually lower now compared to the Biden administration, attributing this to increased American oil production and reduced regulatory barriers for producers.4. Tax Cuts & Regulatory ReformA significant focus is on the reconciliation bill that included tax cuts and regulatory reductions, specifically benefiting American energy producers. The congresswoman discusses plans for a second reconciliation package to continue this work and help people "keep more of what they make."5. Inflation & Wage GrowthThe discussion touches on inflation concerns and highlights a positive trend: wages are now outpacing inflation for the first time in years, which the administration aims to sustain.6. Capitol Hill Internships & Political EngagementThe interview concludes with a lighter discussion about young people entering politics through internships, emphasizing the value of Capitol Hill experience as a career foundation and networking opportunity.Follow Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne's work on her website https://vanduyne.house.gov/Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/

In this episode of The Crude Truth, Rey Trevino sits down with DrillChem's Prater Vincent and Richard Collins to explore the critical role downhole technology plays in today's oil and gas industry.From drilling fluids and wellbore stability to lubrication systems and completion solutions, the conversation dives into how operators maximize production, reduce costs, and overcome increasingly complex drilling challenges. Richard also shares insights from nearly 30 years in the industry, including international experience, the future of U.S. energy production, and how global events are reshaping oil markets.Connect with Richard on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rtcollins/Connect with Prater Benson on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prater-benson-1a1656124/Check out DrillChem's Website: https://drillchem.com/Topics include:Why drilling the well correctly is more important than everHow drilling fluids impact well performanceCost-saving technologies operators are using todayChallenges in the Permian, Haynesville, and emerging basinsThe impact of Middle East disruptions on global oil supplyWhy U.S. shale technology continues to lead the worldDrillChem's domestic and international growth strategy1. Down-Hole Drilling Expertise & Well ConstructionThe episode centers on the critical importance of monitoring and managing the drilling process itself. The host emphasizes that proper well drilling is now more challenging than finding the oil, and that well completion and testing phases are essential to extracting hydrocarbons effectively.2. Drill Chem Company OverviewGuests Prater Bitz and Richard Collins from Drill Chem discuss their specialty chemical company that provides solutions for drilling challenges. They explain how Drill Chem is small enough to react quickly to customer needs but large enough to have their own R&D department and develop proprietary products rather than buying off-the-shelf solutions.3. Drilling Fluid Solutions & Well Bore StabilityThe conversation covers specific products like Terra Lock (a well bore strengthening material) and lubricants designed to reduce torque and enable extended reach drilling. These solutions address common industry challenges like well-bore instability, lost circulation, and narrow mud weight windows.4. Industry Capital Discipline in 2026Discussion about how major oil companies and operators are maintaining capital discipline despite high oil prices, focusing on planned drilling rather than aggressive expansion—a shift from historical boom-bust cycles.5. Geopolitical Impact on Oil MarketsA significant portion covers the Iranian conflict and its effects on global oil supply, including:Production shutdowns in Iran, Qatar, Kuwait, Iraq, and UAEThe challenge of restarting wells after prolonged shutdowns (chemical reactions, permeability changes)Global supply chain impacts including jet fuel shortagesThe role of the U.S. as a "swing producer" filling the global supply gap6. U.S. Oil & Gas Industry LeadershipThe hosts celebrate America's technological advancement in unconventional oil extraction (shale revolution), directional drilling, and hydraulic fracturing—positioning the U.S. as a global leader in both production and technology innovation.7. Drill Chem's Growth StrategyPlans for 2026-2027 include domestic expansion (new facilities in Midland and Williston) and significant international growth, including trials with Saudi Aramco and operations in Kuwait and China.8. Cost-Effectiveness & Operational EfficiencyEmphasis on finding the most cost-effective drilling solutions, shaving days off well operations, and addressing challenges in mature basins where "easy acreage" has been depleted.A fascinating conversation on the engineering, economics, and innovation driving the future of oil and gas.Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/

Live from NAPE 2026, The Crude Truth welcomes Kasey Cox of Metal One America for a conversation on OCTG connections, supply chain shifts, deeper wells, and where drilling technology is headed in 2026.Kasey shares what operators are asking for today, how tariffs and commodity pricing are affecting steel markets, and why service companies are watching geothermal and lithium extraction as emerging opportunities.1. Metal One America & OCTG ConnectionsCasey Cox explains his role at Metal One America, a Japanese-owned company specializing in Oil Country Tubular Goods (OCTG) connections:They provide threaded, coupled, and flush connections for various well applications (intermediate, production casing, etc.)They sell intellectual property to distributors and licensees across the country who thread and couple the connectionsThe company ensures wells don't fail through quality connection productsRecently launched a new wedge connection product that increases torque capacity to 45,000 pounds, addressing deeper and more demanding wells2. Current Industry Landscape & Market ChallengesCasey discusses the unpredictable nature of the current market:Inconsistency: Every week brings something different that changes the industryTariffs & Commodity Rates: Steel tariffs and commodity pricing significantly affect operations and pricingMergers & Acquisitions: These deals can instantly change client relationships—a company can be a client one day and disappear the next after being acquiredConstant Adaptation: These changes keep service companies "on their toes"3. Diversification into Alternative Energy SourcesCasey highlights an important strategic shift:Oil and gas will never go away, but companies are branching into geothermal and lithium extractionService companies are exploring how to apply their existing technology and expertise to new energy sourcesThe key differentiator is people and knowledge—understanding how to transfer industry expertise to emerging energy sectorsThis helps mitigate the natural ebbs and flows of the traditional oil and gas market4. Well Technology EvolutionCasey emphasizes the changing demands on equipment:Wells are going deeper, longer, and fasterCompanies are pushing technological limitsNew products like the wedge connection are designed to handle increased torque levels (45,000 pounds)Growing demand for gas-tight connections due to increased activity in the Haynesville, Marcellus, and Utica shale plays5. Sales Approach & Problem-SolvingCasey discusses his sales philosophy:He uses a consultative approach—asking questions to understand client needs rather than just pitching productsHe describes it as the classic "sell me this pencil" approach: ask questions first, then provide solutionsHe acknowledges that engineers can be difficult to get to open up but are essential to understanding technical requirementsHis outgoing personality helps him find "that one little niche" to break through and solve problems collaboratively6. Professional Background & Career PathCasey shares his 20-year journey in the industry:Started in production (pipe, valves, and fittings for ~5 years)Moved to consulting, where he did rig calls regularlyNow at Metal One America for about a year, focusing on drilling and connectionsUpcoming trip to Midland with his manager and Japanese director to visit rigs and understand client needs firsthandSelf-described as a college dropout who relies on asking questions and learning from engineers7. Industry Culture & NetworkingThe conversation emphasizes the personal side of business:8. Contact & EngagementCasey provides multiple ways to connect:LinkedIn: His preferred method for professional outreachWebsite: mo-tc.com for information on Metal One's connectionsEmail: [email protected] https://www.linkedin.com/in/kasey-cox-50b29638/Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/

Live from NAEP Expo 2026, Brent Franklin (CEO of Rise Capital) breaks down how deals, money, and opportunity collide in the oil & gas industry. From investing strategies to building relationships that change everything—this is where business gets done.Connect with Brent Franklin on his LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brent-franklin-606294193/If you're serious about energy, investing, or scaling your network… YOU need to hear this.Main Topics1. NAEP Expo 2026 OverviewThe episode is recorded live at the NAEP (North American Energy Professionals) Expo 2026, highlighting it as a major networking event where "deals happen." The host emphasizes the event's growth and recovery post-COVID, with increased business activity and deal-making opportunities.2. Rise Capital and Investment OpportunitiesBrent Franklin, President and CEO of Rise Capital, discusses his company's core business model:Private capital management connecting investors with opportunities in oil & gas, real estate, and alternativesA Reg D offering platform where investors can review and select specific projectsAn online portal allowing diversified investment without requiring day-to-day management3. Oil & Gas Investment StructuresThe conversation delves into different investment approaches:Working Interest: Direct ownership with unlimited liability but significant tax benefitsPDP (Proved Developed Producing) assets: Lower-risk investments in already-producing wellsTax deductions: IDC (Intangible Drilling Costs) and TDC (Tangible Drilling Costs) explained as key benefits under IRS code Section 4694. Tax Benefits in Oil & Gas vs. Real EstateA key distinction is made: oil & gas investments offer active tax deductions without requiring material participation (unlike real estate's 500-700 hour requirement), making them more attractive for passive investors seeking tax elimination rather than deferment.5. Rise Energy Group - Vertical Integration StrategyBrent explains his parent company's approach to consolidating smaller service businesses:Rolling up mom-and-pop service companies (drilling, well service, water transfer, wireline)Providing liquidity to companies with bad debt and high overheadCreating a debt-free, vertically integrated operation to reduce costs and improve efficiency6. Market Challenges & EconomicsDiscussion of current oil & gas market conditions:Low commodity prices ($60 oil, $3 gas) making projects less economicalRig count decline (from thousands 20 years ago to ~300 today)Break-even economics at $60/barrel, making cost reduction criticalFocus on shale production over exploration due to higher success rates7. Investment Philosophy & Risk MitigationKey principles emphasized:Diversification across multiple projects and asset classesImportance of operator quality and experienceMitigating risk rather than avoiding lossImportance of "skin in the game" for all parties involvedProduction and cash flow prioritized over tax deductions alone8. Networking & Relationship BuildingThe value of attending industry events like NAEP for:Meeting high-net-worth individuals and decision-makersFinding partnership opportunitiesBuilding relationships that lead to business dealsSurrounding yourself with quality people in the industryThis episode essentially serves as a deep dive into modern oil & gas investment strategies, emphasizing the importance of professional guidance, proper tax structuring, and strategic partnerships in the energy sector.Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/

Live from NAPE 2026, this episode of The Crude Truth dives into the software and data side of the oil & gas industry with W Energy. Joined by Joe Fuda, Gary Napotnik, and Michael Tanner, we break down how modern energy companies are using cloud-based software, data analytics, and AI to streamline operations from field to finance.Check out W Energy https://wenergysoftware.com/Connect with Joe on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-fuda-420392127/Connect with Gary on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/m-surge/1. Oil & Gas Industry Overview & HistoryThe episode opens with a historical perspective on the oil industry, referencing the 1901 Spindletop discovery in Texas and how it shaped America's development. The hosts emphasize that despite alternative energy sources (wind, solar, electric), America still fundamentally depends on oil and the entrepreneurs who produce it.2. W Energy Software Platform & SolutionsThe core focus is on W Energy, a cloud-based software company providing integrated solutions for oil and gas operations. Key features discussed include:Field-to-Finance integration: Connecting field operations, ticketing, production management, and accounting under one platformData View: An analytics-ready tool that allows non-technical users to visualize and understand business data without needing data engineering expertiseAPIs and data accessibility: Balancing technical data access with user-friendly interfaces3. Operational Efficiency & Workflow StreamliningThe speakers emphasize how modern software should:Reduce manual efforts and repetitive tasksEmpower teams to focus on strategic analysis rather than report generationAdapt to evolving business needs as companies scaleAllow executives to understand operations without needing to know "how the sausage is made"4. AI Integration & Future TechnologyA significant discussion centers on:The emerging role of AI in oil and gas operationsHow AI can rapidly deploy use cases and provide real-time insightsThe potential for AI to transform decision-making and data consumption across the industryW Energy's AI roadmap for 20265. Data Security & Privacy ConcernsAn important theme is the tension between AI adoption and data protection:Concerns about proprietary data (P&Ls, completion techniques, surfactant formulas) being exposedThe need for private cloud or on-premises solutions rather than public cloud servicesInformation security challenges in the age of AIThe importance of keeping data "under one roof" to prevent competitive leakage6. Industry Evolution & KPI ManagementThe speakers discuss how:Metrics and KPIs change as companies scale (from 300 BOE/day to 100,000+ BOE/day operations)Software must be flexible enough to adapt to different business models and evolving prioritiesThe industry is becoming more efficient (producing 14+ million barrels/day with fewer rigs)7. NAPE 2026 Conference ContextThe episode is recorded at the NAPE (North American Petroleum Expo) 2026, highlighting:Industry networking and deal-making opportunitiesEmerging technologies and trends being showcasedThe role of digital currencies and AI in shaping the future of the industryThe overall theme is how integrated software platforms with AI capabilities are transforming oil and gas operations by making data more accessible, workflows more efficient, and decision-making more strategic—while maintaining critical data security.Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/

Crude Oil Needs to Run Through Texas.Railroad Commissioner Jim Wright breaks down why Texas remains the backbone of American energy—and where the industry is headed next.Check out the Texas Railroad Commission Site: https://www.rrc.state.tx.us/about-us/commissioners/jim-wright/Key Points:• Texas produces ~43% of U.S. crude oil• Balancing environmental responsibility with economic growth• The Railroad Commission’s critical role in regulation• Why global demand is shifting toward Texas for stability• The future of produced water and new energy tech (like lithium & geothermal)• Challenges and opportunities with legacy wells• How oil & gas fuels Texas’ economy and state surplus1. The Railroad Commission of Texas & Its RoleThe episode centers on an interview with Jim Wright, the incumbent Railroad Commissioner. The discussion emphasizes that the Railroad Commission regulates the oil and gas industry in Texas, manages environmental standards, and is crucial to the state's $20+ billion annual surplus. Wright stresses that despite its outdated name (dating back to transportation regulation), the commission plays a vital role in balancing environmental responsibility with economic success.2. Texas Oil & Gas Production & Economic ImpactThe conversation highlights Texas's dominance in energy production:Texas produces 43% of U.S. crude oil and roughly 30% of natural gasCurrent production is 5.5 million barrels per dayThe industry generated $27 billion in state taxes last yearOil and gas employ over 500,000 people directly and support 2 million more jobs indirectly3. The Shale Revolution & Technological InnovationWright discusses how horizontal drilling and fracking technology transformed the industry, enabling extraction from tight formations. He emphasizes that technology changes constantly and regulations must adapt accordingly. Examples include auto-swabbing systems that revive dormant wells and new applications like lithium extraction and geothermal energy from legacy wells.4. Produced Water Management & Environmental ConcernsA significant portion focuses on produced water—the byproduct of oil extraction (approximately 5 barrels of water per barrel of oil). Key points include:Earthquake risks from deep injection of produced waterDrought conditions in West Texas creating water scarcityPilot programs treating produced water for agricultural use (wheat, alfalfa)Potential for extracting valuable minerals like uranium from produced water5. Senate Bill 1150 & Legacy Well RegulationsThe discussion covers upcoming regulations requiring old wells to be plugged or brought online by September 2027. Wright advocates for flexibility, noting that legacy wells may have future value through emerging technologies (lithium, geothermal) and shouldn't be permanently abandoned without exploring these opportunities.6. Market Stability & Global Energy DemandWright emphasizes that international demand for U.S. oil is surging due to America's political and economic stability. He advocates for marketing Texas oil globally and mentions increased tanker activity in the Gulf of Mexico, positioning Texas as a reliable energy source compared to unstable international alternatives.7. Election & Public EducationThe episode promotes Wright's candidacy for re-election (runoff on May 26th) and stresses the need for voter education about the Railroad Commission's importance. Wright argues that many voters don't understand what the commission does, making it vulnerable to candidates without relevant experience.8. Balancing Environmental & Economic ResponsibilityA recurring theme is the need to maintain both environmental stewardship and economic growth—treating this as a "win-win" rather than a trade-off.Check out LFS Chemistry Sponsor of the Crude Truth here: https://lfschemistry.com/Follow Rey on his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reytrevinoiii/Also, Pecos Operating Website: https://pecosoperating.com/Also, the great Production team at Real News Public Relationshttps://www.realnewspr.com/